Principles
See your money clearly — track lightly
Capture essentials only: income, fixed bills, and weekly flex. A light ledger beats a heavy dashboard when your goal is calm.
Design a quiet budget — rules you can keep
Pick a simple pattern (50/30/20 or 60/20/20). Use envelopes, sub-accounts, or tags — whichever stays readable in a month.
Buy better — durable, maintainable, repairable
Favor items with manuals, spare parts, and service paths. The cheaper upgrade is routine care, not constant replacement.
Automate small moves — momentum is the secret
Route micro-savings weekly and debt payments biweekly. Momentum compounds; small, consistent steps create real distance.